What is new in the Les Wexner Epstein story?

Reports say Jeffrey Epstein repaid Les Wexner $100 million after Wexner accused him of theft. Wexner is also due for a 18 February deposition before a US House committee. These events may bring fresh documents and names into the public record, changing governance risk assessments and investor engagement priorities.

Why does this matter for UK investors?

The details affect ESG screens, stewardship duties, and reputational risk for UK funds, charities, and universities. New information could link to donors, trustees, or advisers. That can drive engagement with boards, changes in proxy voting, and updates to disclosures so that claims about governance are accurate and defensible.

What should boards and charities do now?

Refresh due diligence on donors and affiliates, run adverse-media checks for “Les Wexner Epstein” and “Epstein Files,” review gift-acceptance and de-naming policies, and minute decisions. Prepare communications for stakeholders and maintain evidence of actions. If exposure appears, set clear timelines for remediation and disclose steps to protect trust.

Could this trigger legal or regulatory action in the UK?

It depends on the facts that emerge. If UK links or policy gaps surface, the Charity Commission or the FCA could scrutinise governance or ESG claims. Parliamentary questions are also possible. Investors should document risk assessments and engagement to demonstrate responsible stewardship if oversight intensifies.

Law and Government

Les Wexner February 10: $100mn Epstein Repayment Fuels ESG Risk

ByDanny Kontos February 10, 2026

Les Wexner Epstein disclosures now include a $100 million repayment after Wexner accused Jeffrey Epstein of theft and a 18 February US House deposition. For UK investors, this is a live governance risk test. Screens, donor policies, and board affiliations tied to Wexner-linked institutions face renewed checks. The Epstein Files and the Les Wexner deposition can influence ESG ratings, proxy votes, and reputational risk controls. We set out what changes, who could be exposed in the UK, and how portfolios should respond this month.